Spain held by Iraq in World Cup warm-up amid squad fitness concerns
European champions Spain were held to a 1-1 draw by Iraq in A Coruna after resting 10 key players due to mounting fitness concerns ahead of the World Cup.
Manager Luis de la Fuente opted for extreme caution on home soil, omitting established stars such as Lamine Yamal, Rodri and Pedri.
The much-changed starting line-up struggled to find their rhythm against a resolute Iraqi defence.
Despite a disjointed performance, the hosts took an early lead through a rapid counter-attack in the 16th minute.
Torres strikes but Iraq hit back
Ferran Torres surged through the midfield and fired decisively past the goalkeeper to open the scoring.
However, the advantage proved short-lived as the visitors responded with a spectacular equaliser just 11 minutes later.
Merchas Doski caught Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia slightly off his line, looping a superb angled strike into the net.
The former Manchester City forward nearly restored the lead before half-time, but his fierce effort rattled the crossbar.
Final preparations shift to Mexico
The frustrating stalemate served as a subdued domestic send-off for the 2024 European Championship winners.
De la Fuente’s squad will now travel to North America for their final preparatory fixture against Peru in Puebla on Monday.
The Spanish camp must quickly resolve their physical setbacks before opening their Group H campaign against Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.
Meanwhile, an impressive Iraqi outfit can take immense confidence into their own tournament opener in a challenging Group I alongside France, Senegal and Norway.